Dog's Name & Age
Casey - several dogs by that name
In a Word, My Shetland Sheepdog Is…
A joy, once you get used to their quirks. I have had 5 Shelties.
Best Characteristics of the Breed
They are smart, eager to please and faithful to their owners.
Most Challenging Characteristics of the Breed
They bark a lot. They do shed. Some are timid, fearful of strangers.
When, Where and How I Got My Shetland Sheepdog
I had two Shelties (one named Casey) before my children were born, gave them away when we moved to FL. When we moved to a farm in Iowa my children begged for a dog, so we ended up with two more (another Casey). These two were with us for many years and were part of the family.
I'd Describe My Dog As…
Shelties love to walk and need daily exercise. They are good at learning to fetch, and will play until they drop (literally). Two of our Shelties were fearful; one would hide when strangers came into the house; another didn't like men or loud voices. Both Caseys were friendly and playful with everyone. My children were beyond toddler stage when we got our second "set" of Shelties; I am not sure how they would do with babies. When we lived on the farm, our dogs roamed, but they need to be kept in a fenced yard in town.
Advice
- Most important to get a Sheltie from a reputable breeder. Do your homework and find a breeder who has a good reputation.
- If you get an older Sheltie, expect behavioral problems (like the timidity I mentioned).
- Shelties are great family dogs and will grow up with your children and love them and be good companions.
- They are not as good with older people, since they need more exercise and activity (unless they are older dogs themselves).
- Shelties are easily trained as puppies. It doesn't take much to teach them all kinds of tricks. And it's fun to play with your dog.
